Tensioning The Saw Chain; Checking The Chain Tension; Retensioning The Saw Chain - Makita EA3500S Operator's And Safety Manual

Pull the chain (6) around the sprocket nose (8) of the guide
bar in the direction of the arrow.
Replace the sprocket guard (3).
IMPORTANT:
Lift the saw chain over the chain catcher (9).
Tighten the nuts (2) only hand-tight to begin with.

Tensioning the saw chain

Turn the QuickSet chain tensioner (10) to the right
(clockwise) using the combination tool, until the saw chain
guide elements engage in the guide groove on the bottom
of the guide bar (if necessary, pull the chain into position
slightly).
Raise the tip of the guide bar slightly and turn the chain
tensioner (10) further until the saw chain is flush against the
bottom of the guide bar (see circle).
While still holding up the tip of the guide bar, tighten the
retaining nuts (2) with the universal wrench.
NOTE: If the guide bar has been turned over, turn the chain
tensioner to left (i.e. counter-clockwise) to tighten the chain.

Checking the chain tension

The tension of the chain is correct if the chain rests against
the bottom side of the guide bar and can still be easily turned
by hand.
While doing so the chain brake must be released.
Check the chain tension frequently - new chains tend to get
longer during use!
When checking the chain tension the engine must be
switched off.
NOTE: It is recommended to use 2-3 chains alternatively.
In order to guarantee uniform wear of the guide bar the bar
should be turned over whenever replacing the chain.

Retensioning the saw chain

Use the combination tool to loosen the fastening nuts
(2) about one turn. Raise the tip of the guide bar slightly
and turn the QuickSet chain tensioner (10) to the right
(clockwise) until the saw chain is again flush against the
bottom of the guide bar (see circle).
While still holding up the tip of the guide bar, tighten the
retaining nuts (2) with the universal wrench.
22
6
3 2
9
STOP
8
2
10
2